Mumps

/mʌmps/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A viral infectious disease characterized by swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands.

The outbreak of mumps in the school led to a temporary closure to prevent further spread.

In a broader sense, a condition of swollen or inflamed glands, particularly in the context of illness.

After being diagnosed with mumps, the patient experienced discomfort and difficulty in swallowing.

A disease that can be prevented by vaccination, caused by the mumps virus.

The MMR vaccine is essential for protecting children against measles, mumps, and rubella.

Middle English; probably from 'mumpen', meaning to grimace.

mumps outbreak

A sudden increase in cases of mumps in a specific area.

get mumps

To contract the mumps virus.

mumps vaccine

A vaccination intended to prevent mumps.

viral infection

An infection caused by a virus.

salivary glands

Glands that produce saliva.

vaccination

The act of inoculating a person to provide immunity.